Creativity has always been at the heart of innovation. But as technology evolves, so do the tools we use to create. In a recent Pactto Live, we had the chance to sit down with Dann Petty, a designer with over 20 years of experience, to discuss creativity, the future of design, and how AI is shifting the landscape.
Breaking the Mold From Web Design to Gaming
Dann’s journey is one of constant evolution. Starting as a freelance designer, he worked with major companies and agencies, shaping the digital experiences we use every day. Now, he’s producing epic videos and designing for the gaming industry, working on a platform called HYTOPIA, aiming to take on giants like Roblox and Minecraft. His career shift is proof that creativity isn’t about sticking to one thing, it’s about adapting, learning, and pushing boundaries.
Why Experiences Matter
One of Dann’s most impactful contributions to the creative space is Epicurrence, an unconventional design conference born from his love of snowboarding. Unlike traditional conferences filled with back-to-back talks, Epicurrence focused on real connections, bringing people together in a meaningful way. Many attendees walked away with job opportunities, new friendships, and collaborations, all because the event prioritized experience over passive learning.
AI in Creativity, A Threat or a Tool?
As AI continues to reshape industries, one question remains: Is creativity uniquely human? Dann doesn’t see AI as a replacement but as a tool that enhances the creative process. From generating inspiration to automating repetitive tasks, AI can help designers focus on what truly matters, bringing ideas to life. However, as AI-generated designs become more common, the challenge will be to maintain authenticity. The best creatives won’t just be the ones who know how to use AI but those who understand storytelling, emotion, and the human connection behind every design.
Balancing Work and Life as a Creative
Dann also touched on the importance of work-life balance, a challenge many creatives face. He shared his personal experiences of working long hours, only to realize later that time spent with family and personal passions is just as crucial as career growth. His advice? Find ways to recharge, whether it’s stepping away from the screen, picking up a new hobby, or simply taking time to reflect. Creativity flourishes when the mind is given space to breathe.
The Role of Pactto in the Creative Workflow
For Dann, one of the biggest challenges in design has always been communication. Traditional feedback methods, such as emails, comments, and endless text threads, fail to capture the full picture. That’s why he’s a big advocate for video-based feedback. With Pactto, designers can instantly record their thoughts, mark up their work, and provide clear action points without losing the emotional intent behind their ideas.
The Next Five Years of Design
Dann predicts a major shift in the creative industry. With AI accelerating workflows, we may see fewer designers in traditional roles, but those who adapt will thrive. The key will be embracing change, constantly learning, and using new tools to enhance, not replace, human creativity.At Pactto, we believe the future of design isn’t about AI versus humans, it’s about using AI to free up time for what we do best: creating, innovating, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
What do you think about the future of Design? Where will we be in 5 years?
